That could put Freese in position to cash in -- but to what degree would be in question, since he turns 33 next April.

The Angels would like to turn over third base next year to prospect Kyle Kubitza, who is batting .294 at triple-A and leads the Pacific Coast League with 20 doubles. It is uncertain whether Kubitza's uneven defense might open a door for Freese to return.

"We've not yet determined what we will do moving forward," General Manager Jerry Dipoto said.

Freese said he would love to stay.

"Who wouldn't want to play here?" he said. "It's a team that always has a chance to compete for the division. It's a great group of guys."